Tag Archives: many

Featured

April-June 2023 Recap: All The Major Auto Events That Happened This Past Quarter


We witnessed several discontinuations, new launches, and crash test scores over the last three months.

The second quarter of 2023 was both hectic and exciting, especially considering the Auto Expo 2023 that took place earlier, where many cars were unveiled. This quarter saw a mix of highly anticipated launches and disappointing discontinuations in the Indian auto industry. Here’s a detailed recap of all the key headlines over the past three months:

Discontinuations

Several cars were discontinued due to the implementation of the BS6 Phase 2 norms. Here’s a list of models that are no longer available:

1. Honda Jazz, WR-V, and fourth-generation City: These models were already outdated compared to their rivals, especially the Jazz and WR-V.

2. Maruti Alto 800: After being on sale for over a decade, Maruti has discontinued its entry-level model with the sub-litre engine. However, the Alto nameplate still exists in the form of the K10, which has a 1-litre petrol unit.

3. Skoda Octavia and Superb: The new emission norms also affected the Skoda Octavia and Superb, leading to their discontinuation. The Superb might make a comeback in a new avatar, while the Octavia is rumored to return as an imported version at a higher price.

4. Other discontinuations include the Mahindra KUV100 NXT, Nissan Kicks, and Kia Carnival. The Mahindra and Nissan offerings were axed due to poor sales, while the Kia MPV was outdated compared to the global model.

Launches

MARUTI JIMNY

The highlight of this quarter was the long-awaited launch of the Maruti Jimny. This compact SUV was announced for the Indian market three years ago and is now priced between Rs 12.74 lakh and Rs 15.05 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes in two trims – Zeta and Alpha – and offers features such as LED headlamps, a 9-inch touchscreen system, cruise control, six airbags, and a rear camera. The Jimny is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine with manual and automatic options, and it comes with 4X4 as standard.

MARUTI FRONX

Prior to the Jimny, Maruti launched the all-new Maruti Fronx, a compact SUV based on the Baleno. The Fronx has a unique SUV-crossover design inspired by the Grand Vitara and is priced between Rs 7.46 lakh and Rs 13.13 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available with two engine options: a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1-litre turbo-petrol, both offered with manual and automatic transmissions.

MG COMET EV

The most affordable electric vehicle in India, the MG Comet EV, was launched this quarter. It is a small two-door EV with a four-seat capacity, equipped with a 17.3kWh battery pack that provides a range of up to 230 kilometers. The Comet EV features LED headlamps, dual 10.25-inch displays for the touchscreen system and digital instrument cluster, dual airbags, and a rear camera. The prices for the Comet range from Rs 7.98 lakh to Rs 9.98 lakh (ex-showroom).

TATA ALTROZ CNG

Tata introduced the CNG variant of its premium hatchback, the Altroz. The Altroz CNG is available in six variants, priced from Rs 7.55 lakh to Rs 10.55 lakh (ex-showroom). It is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol-CNG engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The highlight of the Altroz CNG is its dual-cylinder setup, which frees up more boot space. It offers features such as an electric sunroof, wireless charger, rain-sensing wipers, and dual front airbags.

Volkswagen Virtus and Taigun Updates

Volkswagen introduced new variants in the Taigun lineup – GT MT and GT Plus DSG. The Virtus also received an update with the introduction of the GT Plus MT variant, which features a 150PS turbo-petrol engine with a manual transmission. Additionally, two new limited-edition colors – Deep Black Pearl and Carbon Steel Grey Matte – were added to both models.

BS6 PHASE 2 Launches

All the cars were updated with BS6 phase 2 emission norms by April, resulting in a price hike. These updates also led to changes in power figures and fuel economy for several cars.

Crash Test Scores

Maruti Wagon R

The Maruti Wagon R received a one-star safety rating in the global NCAP crash tests. It scored one star for adult occupants’ protection and zero stars for child occupants’ protection.

Volkswagen Virtus / Skoda Slavia

The Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia emerged as the safest cars in India, scoring a full five stars for adult and child occupants’ protection.

Maruti Alto K10

The updated global NCAP crash tests awarded the Maruti Alto K10 a two-star safety rating. Although its body shell integrity was rated stable, the overall safety score was not impressive.

Unveilings And Teasers

Citroen C3 Aircross

Citroen showcased the C3 Aircross, its entry into the compact SUV segment in India. Expected to go on sale in August, this three-row SUV features a 10-inch touchscreen system, a 7-inch digital display, dual airbags, and TPMS. It will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and may offer an automatic transmission. The expected price of the C3 Aircross is around Rs 10 lakh.

Honda Elevate

Honda unveiled the Elevate compact SUV, which is set to launch in India soon. It is a petrol-only SUV powered by the 1.5-litre petrol engine from the City, available with manual and CVT transmissions. The Elevate features a 10.25-inch touchscreen system, a digital instrument cluster, an electric sunroof, six airbags, and ADAS. The expected price of the Elevate is around Rs 12 lakh.

Hyundai Exter

The Hyundai Exter, a micro SUV based on the Grand i10 Nios, was unveiled. It comes equipped with an electric sunroof, an 8-inch touchscreen system, automatic AC, six airbags, TPMS, and a rear camera. The Exter is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine with manual and AMT transmissions, and it also offers a CNG option. The expected price of the Exter is around Rs 6 lakh.

Maruti Invicto

Maruti is set to launch the Invicto MPV, which is a rebadged version of the Innova Hycross. The Invicto MPV will be powered by the Hycross’ 2-litre petrol-hybrid engine, claiming a mileage of up to 23.24kmpl. It will offer features like a panoramic sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen system, dual-zone AC, a wireless charger, up to six airbags, and ADAS. The expected price of the Invicto is around Rs 19 lakh.

Events That Would Impact The Auto Industry

New Lithium Reserves

In February, India discovered its first lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir, and even larger reserves were found in Rajasthan in May 2023. These reserves position India as one of the world’s largest lithium producers, which will support the production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles.

Tesla India Launch Confirmed

Elon Musk confirmed Tesla’s entry into the Indian market during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the USA. The Prime Minister invited Musk to explore investment opportunities in India, including setting up factories for local production of EVs.

Read More on : Maruti Jimny on road price

Mazda

Mazda CX-9 Discontinuation

IRVINE, Calif. (June 30, 2023) – Mazda has announced that it will discontinue the CX-9 for the US market after the 2023 model year. The CX-9 has been a successful vehicle known for its utility, performance, design, and premium features. It has played a significant role in paving the way for Mazda’s next generation of vehicles, such as the upcoming 2024 CX-90. Mazda remains committed to providing the best human-centric experience and continues to evolve its vehicles accordingly.

Mazda North American Operations, based in Irvine, California, is responsible for sales, marketing, parts, and customer service support for Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Colombia. They work closely with approximately 795 dealers across these regions. Mazda operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario. In Mexico, Mazda Motor de Mexico handles operations in Mexico City. In Colombia, Mazda de Colombia is responsible for operations in Bogota. For more information about Mazda vehicles, including photos and videos, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com.

Contact:
Justin Pagtalunan, Mazda North American Operations, media@mazdausa.com
Jake Stumph, Mazda North American Operations, media@mazdausa.com

Cars

This 1986 Oldsmobile Concept Car Has One Of The Coolest Steering Wheels We’ve Ever Seen

Amongst the many vaguely sci-fi-inspired concept cars that appeared throughout the 1980s, the 1986 Oldsmobile Incas stands out due to its commitment to an unconventional design.

The most striking feature of the Incas is its steering wheel, or rather, “steering handle”. Unlike a traditional wheel, it is not circular in shape. Instead, it consists of two parallel metallic grips surrounded by an array of buttons commonly found on a car’s dashboard. This handle not only controls turning signals and windshield wipers, but also serves as the transmission shifter, hazard lights switch, headlight controls, HVAC controls, and more. In fact, there are no buttons or levers anywhere else on the dashboard, making it a unique design choice.

If the steering handle’s retro-futuristic design isn’t enough, the Incas also features innovative doors. While most may associate retro-futuristic car doors with the gullwing doors of the DeLorean, the Incas takes it a step further. It includes gullwing doors for the rear seats, whereas the driver and passenger seats are accessed by the front of the car’s hood folding up.

Although the Oldsmobile Incas never made it into production, it remains an intriguing concept car that showcases futuristic elements, such as its unconventional steering wheel and unique door design. Perhaps one day, we will see similar features implemented in everyday cars.

Featured

Too Good To Be True? Massive Discounts On Toyota Hilux Officially Denied


The carmaker has responded to reports of heavy benefits on the Toyota Hilux worth many lakhs

  • Several reports claimed that the Hilux is available with discounts of up to Rs 10 lakh. 

  • Toyota has confirmed that the reports are incorrect and there are no discounts available with the Hilux. 

  • It gets a 2.8-litre diesel engine with manual and automatic transmissions and 4X4 as standard. 

  • Offered in just two variants with comforts like cruise control, dual-zone climate control and powered driver’s seat.

  • The Hilux is priced from 30.40 lakh to Rs 37.90 lakh (ex-showroom). 

Several reports have been suggesting heavy discounts on the Toyota Hilux ranging from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, depending on the variant. However, Toyota has denied the validity of any such offer claims. 

In an official statement, Toyota has responded stating: With regards to certain media reports on the Toyota Hilux being offered at a highly discounted price, this is to officially communicate that the reports are incorrect. Toyota Kirloskar Motor continues to strictly follow the price list officially announced by the company which ranges from Rs. 30,40,000 – Rs. 37,90,000/- (ex-showroom).

The claimed discounts

According to the reports, dealers are offering the top-end automatic variant of the Hilux for an on-road price of around Rs 30 lakh instead of the regular on-road price that is around Rs 44 lakh. This would have made it cost similar to the fully-loaded Isuzu V-Cross. The deal definitely sounds very attractive, but has been officially denounced by the manufacturer. In fact, there are no known offers on the pickup and it even has an average waiting period of three months.

Also Read: We Took The Toyota Hilux On An Off-road Expedition!

Toyota Hilux details

The Hilux is equipped with a 2.8-litre diesel engine, which produces 204PS of power and up to 500Nm of peak torque. It offers a choice of 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions, and comes with 4X4 as standard. The pickup also features a low range gearbox with a transfer case, traction control, and electronic differential lock for better off-roading capabilities. 

The Toyota Hilux comes with LED headlamps, an 8-inch touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and cruise control. Safety features include vehicle stability control, hill assist / descent control, seven airbags, front parking sensors, and a rear camera. 

Also Read: Top 5 Toyota Hilux Accessories Price Revealed – Tent, Canopy, And More

The Toyota Hilux is priced higher and serves as a premium alternative to the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. 

Read More on : Toyota Hilux diesel

Cars

Best Cars Of 2023 — 10 Of The Top Rated Picks

When it comes to luxury vehicles, performance and practicality are important, but there are other factors that buyers consider. They look for class, comfort, and small details that add beauty. They want a car that justifies its high price tag, which can be three times or more than a standard vehicle. Luckily, the BMW i7 checks all the boxes when it comes to luxury.

The ride in the BMW i7 is incredibly smooth, almost like gliding on the road instead of rolling. Despite its impressive speed, it never feels too fast. Even when reaching speeds over 100 mph, it remains safe and comfortable, comparable to driving at 40 mph in a regular car.

While driving the BMW i7 is an experience in itself, passengers can have an even better time thanks to its exceptional infotainment system. Passengers in the backseat can customize their seat settings to heat or cool as needed. The car also offers various massage settings for ultimate relaxation. Additionally, Theater Mode can be activated, which unveils a 31-inch, 8K resolution screen and rolls up the window shades for an immersive entertainment experience.

The BMW i7 provides a complete luxury limousine experience. However, in addition to the cost of over $150,000 for a fully equipped i7, you may also need to budget for a chauffeur if you want to fully enjoy the experience.

Motorsport

Ford Builds Firefighting Bronco, Donates It To National Park In New Mexico

Ford has created a specialized version of the Bronco SUV to serve as a mobile firefighting command vehicle at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico. This modified Bronco is designed to access remote areas and provide up-to-date information to firefighters.

The firefighting Bronco is a collaboration between Ford and Darley, a manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles. It is based on the Badlands model with the Sasquatch package, which includes a suspension lift and 35-inch tires for improved off-roading capabilities. Additional features such as a Warn winch, grille guard, and beadlock wheels have been added to help the Bronco navigate the rugged terrain of the 33,000-acre national monument.


News

Why The Chevy Blazer EV Is Better Than The Ford Mustang Mach-E

When looking for an electric vehicle, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. With so many options on the market, each with different features and capabilities, making a choice can be challenging. Two of the most well-known automotive brands, Chevy and Ford, have joined the electric vehicle market with their versions of EVs – the Chevy Blazer EV and the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The Blazer EV from Chevrolet is set to compete head-to-head with the popular Ford Mustang Mach-E. While both models have their merits, it’s important to understand which features make each option a better choice for those seeking an EV.

How Better Performance And Faster Charging Make The Chevy Blazer EV Unique

The Chevy Blazer EV and the Ford Mustang Mach-E offer multiple motor and battery options, ranging from front-wheel drive to full electric all-wheel drive. In terms of performance, the Blazer EV surpasses the Mustang Mach-E, especially at its top trim level (SS) which offers 557 horsepower and 648 pound-feet of torque. This kind of power allows the Blazer EV to accelerate from 0-60 mph in under four seconds, comparable to the Mustang Mach-E’s GT version. The Blazer EV also has better range capabilities, thanks to different battery options. It can drive up to 320 miles on RS trims, which is 14 miles higher than the Mustang Mach-E’s range. Furthermore, the Blazer EV has a faster charging time, with its standard fast charger providing 78 extra miles of charge in just 10 minutes, compared to Ford’s 59 miles.

Specs Comparison

Chevy Blazer EV SS Trim Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance
Drivetrain Dual Motor, AWD Dual Motor, AWD
Power Output 557 Horsepower, 648 pound-feet of torque 480 Horsepower, 634 pound-feet of torque
Range 320 Miles 306 Miles
Charging Time 78 Miles in 10 minutes @ 190kW 59 Miles in 10 minutes @ 150 kW

Aesthetics Reign Supreme For The Chevy Blazer EV

When it comes to aesthetics, both the Chevy Blazer EV and the Ford Mustang Mach-E have similar designs and features. However, the Blazer EV offers more connectivity options and features, such as cooled seats which are not available in the Mach-E. The Blazer EV also has a more luxurious approach, with spacious and visually appealing cabins, including screens and a head-up display. Additionally, it provides rear seat passengers with vents and USB outlets, and the cabin features contrast stitching and high-quality materials for maximum user satisfaction. In terms of storage, the Blazer EV offers ample cargo room, making it a practical choice.

The Chevy Blazer EV Has The Cost To Performance Advantage

Interestingly, the Chevy Blazer EV has several advantages over the Mustang Mach-E, including better performance and features. However, the price advantage does not lean toward the Mach-E. The Chevy Blazer EV has multiple trim options, starting with the base mono trim at $44,995, offering a range of 247 miles. The top-of-the-line SS trim is priced at $65,995 and provides a range of 290 miles. On the other hand, the Mustang Mach-E offers various trims with prices ranging from $44,795 to $64,995. Overall, the Chevy Blazer EV offers better value for money with its performance and range capabilities.

Price Comparison

Chevy Blazer EV 1LT $44,995
Chevy Blazer EV 2LT $47,595
Chevy Blazer EV RS $51,995
Chevy Blazer EV SS $65,995
Ford Mustang Mach-E Select (RWD/eAWD) $42,995 / $45,995
Ford Mustang Mach-E (RWD/eAWD) $46,995 / $49,995
Ford Mustang Mach-E California Route 1 $56,995
Ford Mustang Mach-E GT / GT Performance Edition $59,995 / $64,995

Is The Chevy Blazer EV A Better EV Than The Mustang Mach-E?

Comparing the Chevy Blazer EV with the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Blazer EV has several advantages in terms of performance, features, and pricing. It offers great power, shorter charging times, and a more luxurious interior. The Blazer EV’s range capabilities and different trim options provide more choices for buyers. Overall, the Chevy Blazer EV provides a solid package that appeals to car enthusiasts, whether they prioritize performance or economy. It redefines the value of a crossover EV and offers a better value for money proposition.

Motorsport

Tour A Tiny Ford Transit Connect Cozy Camper Conversion

In the world of homebuilt campers, vehicles like school buses and Mercedes-Sprinters are often used as a starting point. However, Terri, the woman behind the Misty Miles YouTube channel, took a different approach by converting a 2010 Ford Transit Connect into a micro RV.

The Ford Transit Connect that Terri used for her conversion is a long-wheelbase, high-roof model. According to a brochure from that period, it has a cargo volume of 131 cubic feet (3.7 cubic meters), which increases to 152 cubic feet (4.3 cubic meters) when the front passenger seat is folded. Despite its small size, Terri managed to make the most of this space.

Terri purchased the Transit Connect on eBay without seeing it firsthand. She bid for it while driving and ended up paying just 2,800 pounds ($3,557) for the vehicle. She affectionately named her new motorhome Blanche.

The conversion process began with insulating the cargo area to improve climate control. The insulation has proven effective, allowing Terri to live in Blanche during the freezing temperatures of February in Scotland. Surprisingly, there is no heating system installed in the camper.

Terri made the interior of the van cozy by utilizing inexpensive materials. For example, she created the countertop using pieces of pallets, and her bookshelf is made from the same wood and a stick. She even built a shelf using just a length of wood and some rope. Her sink is a waterproofed bamboo bowl with a hole in the bottom.

The camper features a couch that extends to become a bed, providing enough space for Terri to sleep comfortably. However, it can be tight if two people share the bed.

Underneath the couch, there are drawers for additional storage. A cupboard in the front is large enough to fit her duvet. There is also a dedicated area for the battery that powers the lights and other utilities in the van. Terri plans to install a second battery soon to meet her power needs more efficiently.

Terri documents her travels around Europe and Scotland with Blanche on the Misty Miles YouTube channel. Her most recent video features the tiny country of Liechtenstein. She also shares photos of her adventures on her Instagram page.

Motorsport

Future Toyota Vehicles Could Incorporate AI in Design Process

In 2023, artificial intelligence has become a widely discussed topic, with many industries exploring the potential of machine learning technologies for problem-solving. The automotive industry is no exception, as numerous companies have already integrated AI into various tasks within their research and development divisions. Toyota is now joining this trend by announcing its research on AI-based car design, leveraging its generative artificial intelligence technique developed by the Toyota Research Institute (TRI).

For those concerned, rest assured that your next Tacoma truck will not have an entirely AI-designed exterior. Instead, Toyota aims to utilize this technology during the early stages of the design process, where multiple iterations of a project are necessary for engineering considerations. In other words, if the automaker decides to create a new large two-door coupe, it can request AI to generate a range of initial designs based on specific parameters. The rendering displayed at the top of this article serves as an example, as it was created by artificial intelligence.


NewsNew

HERITAGE HUSKY TX300 PROJECT

We have been working with Dick Wilk for a long time. He is an experienced desert racer turned tuner and suspension specialist known for building powerful machines and improving their suspension. Recently, Dick brought us his latest creation based on the Husqvarna TX300. He was amazed by the stock engine, calling it the best 300 engine he has ever worked with. Despite his passion for modifying engines, he decided to leave this one stock, an unusual choice for him.

In addition to the engine, Dick put a lot of effort into upgrading the suspension. He installed his Hybrid AER kit on the air fork, which includes new valving and a spring setup. The goal was to improve versatility, provide a more comfortable ride, and achieve better balance. As for the shock, he made modifications to enhance traction, improve performance in rough terrain, and make the bike suitable for both desert racing and woods riding.

Dick has a special fondness for Husqvarna motorcycles, having raced them since the early 1980s. So, for his personal machine, he chose graphics that embrace the “Heritage” look. He also installed special wheels, made comfort updates, and added features to enhance high-speed handling and off-road protection. Let’s take a closer look at his modified Husqvarna TX300, the modifications he made, and the reasons behind them.

• Dick opted for a Scalvini cone pipe and silencer to handle the exhaust system of the TX300.

• Being an avid Husqvarna fan, he loved the “Heritage” look of the TX300. Decal Works took care of the graphics while Tusk rotors were added. The bike received black hubs with gold rims, Dunlop tires, and Nitromousse foam inserts in both wheels.

• For off-road riding, Dick installed a Seat Concepts Comfort saddle to provide better feel and traction while riding. The comfort shape of the seat maintains a similar contour to the stock seat at the front, allowing the rider’s legs to remain close together. Towards the middle, the seat tapers out to distribute the rider’s weight over a larger area. The Element cover of the seat features four traction ribs.

Custom gold/black wheels, Dunlop MX33 tires, a Primary drive chain and sprockets, Flexx bars, and a Scotts steering damper enhance Dick’s TX300.

The rear end of the bike underwent significant changes to match the performance of the Hybrid forks. A stiffer spring was installed for a 200-pound rider, and the valving was adjusted to provide smoother action, improved rebound, and increased resistance to bottoming out. The new no-tools adjusters made testing easier, although the rebound adjustment was a bit challenging. Nitromousse foam tubes were added inside the Dunlop MX33 tires, and the bike also received Tusk discs, sprockets, and a gold O-ring chain. The stock white plastic was replaced with OEM white plastic covered with graphics designed by Dicks Racing and produced by Decal Works. Additionally, a P3 carbon fiber skid plate with a linkage guard replaced the stock plastic skid plate.

Dick chose Flexx handlebars and a Scotts steering damper mounted on a BRP mount for improved feel, comfort, and stability. He also addressed the vulnerability of the radiator hose located between the frame and exhaust pipe. To prevent potential damage from rocks or debris, he added a tidy-white plastic splitloom protector.

Dicks Racing has been refining the AER forks since their introduction in 2017. Dick’s Hybrid system incorporates a new cartridge that accepts a spring while still utilizing the AER cartridge at a significantly reduced pressure (140psi down to 55psi). This eliminates the initial harshness caused by the excessive AER pressure. The Hybrid system retains the lightweight, progressive, and adjustable characteristics of the AER forks while providing a plush, controlled, and capable performance on big hits. STR also developed special push-button bleeders to complete the package.

Dick Wilk was impressed by the response and strength of the new powerplant. The throttle-body injection system and the electronically controlled power valve have greatly improved the powerband compared to the previous generation. The only modification he made to the engine was adding a Scalvini cone pipe and silencer. Most of his development time was spent on suspension tuning. The all-new frame required new settings to achieve the desired results. Both the front and rear suspension needed adjustments to provide better performance in rocky sections while maintaining proper support through whoops and G-outs.